Regional Government congratulates Pico Island Farmers' Association on success of Agricultural Fair - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação

For three days, the rural nature of Pico was on display and it was possible to appreciate its specificity in a "unique style that marks its history and promotes its future," said the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, at the end of the Pico Agricultural Fair.

The fair showcased beef and dairy animals in particular, highlighting the animal excellence of Pico Island.

The number of people attending the various competitions featuring beef breeds (Simental-Fleckvieh, Charolais, Limousin and Abaerdeen-Angus), the native Ramo Grande breed, the Holstein Friesian breed and horse riding "demonstrates the interest people have in the rural world of Pico," stated António Ventura.

He continued: "This is part of a rural world that goes beyond agricultural productivity and is an example of intergenerational support for sustainability in the use of endogenous resources and the social, environmental and tourist diversity it provides."

The quality of Pico Island's production animals "reflects the hard work, dedication and commitment of farmers to genetic investment and, as such, to improving breeds so as to ensure that they produce high-quality milk and meat," he continued.

The event also showed concern for pets and featured a parade for pet adoption.

"The Regional Government is pleased and proud to have supported this Fair, especially through the Pico Agrarian Development Services, knowing its positive agri-food effects in the Azores and beyond. The Government acknowledges the vitality of Pico Island's farmers and is committed to continuing to develop the island's unique agricultural productions," said the Regional Secretary.

At a time when there is great demand for Azorean beef, the island of Pico Island has established itself as a high-quality geography for supplying this agrifood product.

Alongside the cattle exhibition, various events and talks were held on wine-growing, wine tourism, organic farming, soils, cooking new dishes, honey and protected areas.

A meeting between agrifood producers and the local population provided dialogue and created food confidence through knowledge of the Azores' sustainability and production capacity.

The Pico Agricultural Fair was organised by the Azores Agricultural Federation with the involvement of its leaders and other Azorean associations and cooperatives.